The World of Avlis

I have a few questions about the AD&D universe and how demi-gods and gods are born from mortals there.

I have a vague understanding that here in Avlis, if someone managed to amass hundreds of thousands or millions of faithful followers they would eventually rise to godhood.

Is that how it works in AD&D as well? Is there any ritual to the transition from mortality to the immortality of godhood if so? What about for demi-gods? What is the difference between demi-gods and full gods as well? Is the relationship similar to Hercules and Zues (demi-god to full god)?

Could a legendary swordsman whose renown and fame was so widespread that it became faith and worship instead of just admiration transition from a mere mortal to a demi-god? How would that work? Would this famed swordsman just wake one morning sensing a change in himself? What sort of powers would this new demi-god suddenly possess that they didn?t as a mortal?

I can speak with certainty as to what was the case with PC ascension at the 2nd edition D&D rules.

Worshippers is a prime need for one to even think of ascension.

Let us keep in mind though that all PCs above 9th level achieved lord status, meaning they had some initial followers. After that it was up to the PC to make himself a crowd of followers. Note that so far we are using the word followers, not worshippers.

I have read the following procedure of ascension from an official source, although I cannot at the moment recall which book that was. It might have been a Dragon magazine as well, but I doubt it.

In order for one to ascend to Demigod status, he must first find himself a patron deity, a powerful one most likely. Then he must visit this deity to its plane and earn its interest, meaning a gift or a deed usually. Once that was achieved, the deity presented the mortal with an epic quest. Upon this quest's completion the deity would accept the mortal and cause his ascension to Demigod status.

There are quite a few technical details in between, but I cannot recall any of them at the moment.

Hope that helps.

That helps a very great deal! I really appreciate the response Sveg!

This all has to do with a long running story I've been playing with a friend for years. One of his characters has moved far beyond simple fame and legend over the years into a heroic figure of mythic proportions. Due to some of the aspects of his unique situation, it occured to me that the great numbers of people who praise his legend might eventually start worshipping him. So I was wondering what effect that might have, if any, and if it did...what would next happen as far as rising to demi-god status and so on.

Thanks again, that helped a lot.

In order for one to ascend to Demigod status, he must first find himself a patron deity, a powerful one most likely. Then he must visit this deity to its plane and earn its interest, meaning a gift or a deed usually. Once that was achieved, the deity presented the mortal with an epic quest. Upon this quest's completion the deity would accept the mortal and cause his ascension to Demigod status.

COOL!

Goes off to talk with Dru'EL about a promotion